Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Black tarry stool
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Black tarry stool?
Black tarry stool, also known as melena, is a condition where the stool appears dark and sticky, often due to the presence of digested blood. It's important to understand the causes so that you can take timely action and receive proper treatment.
Symptoms of Black tarry stool
Common symptoms include:
- Stool that is dark, black, and sticky
- A foul odor from the stool
- Potential accompanying symptoms like stomach pain or dizziness
What causes Black tarry stool?
Black tarry stool is typically caused by:
- Bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract (e.g., stomach ulcers or varices)
- Ingestion of certain medications like iron supplements or bismuth-based products
- Excessive alcohol consumption or smoking
Risk factors for Black tarry stool
Risk factors include:
- Peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding disorders
- Use of blood-thinning medications
- Excessive alcohol consumption or smoking
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How is Black tarry stool diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
- A physical exam and review of symptoms
- Blood tests to check for anemia or signs of bleeding
- Endoscopy or imaging tests to identify the source of bleeding
How is Black tarry stool treated?
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may include:
- Medications to treat ulcers or bleeding disorders
- Endoscopic procedures to stop bleeding
- Lifestyle changes to manage risk factors like alcohol consumption
Medications for Black tarry stool
Medications for gastrointestinal bleeding, such as proton pump inhibitors or hemostatic agents, can help. NiHowdy offers savings on these medications, making them more affordable with Bitcoin rebates.
Can Black tarry stool be prevented?
Preventive measures include:
- Treating gastrointestinal conditions like ulcers early
- Avoiding excessive use of alcohol and smoking
- Regular screenings for people at risk of GI bleeding
Managing Black tarry stool at home
- Maintain a healthy diet to prevent gastrointestinal issues
- Avoid medications that irritate the stomach lining
- Stay hydrated and manage stress to support overall digestive health
When should you seek help for Black tarry stool?
If you notice black tarry stool, especially with other symptoms like abdominal pain, dizziness, or vomiting blood, seek medical attention immediately for a thorough evaluation.
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How NiHowdy helps with Black tarry stool
NiHowdy helps make medications for gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and related conditions more affordable through savings and Bitcoin rebates.
Success stories with Black tarry stool
Larry had black tarry stool due to a bleeding ulcer. With NiHowdy, he saved 35% on his medication, which helped manage the bleeding and promote healing effectively.
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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.
